Hair loss in women is more common than many people think. The fact is, there are close to 20 million women in the United States alone that are experiencing hair loss at this time. This may seem astounding but the fact is, thinning hair is a problem that is not unique to men only.

Genetics is mainly to blame for hair loss in women and in men, however, there are often other factors that contribute to female hair loss. Stress, especially the long-term variety that is caused by divorce, death of a spouse, loss of a job, or a chronic illness, can wreak havoc on a person both mentally and physically. One of the symptoms of this chronic stress is hair loss, which can be subtle or it can be quite obvious.

Another reason for hair loss in women is hormonal fluctuations, especially during and after pregnancy. When a woman is pregnant, she is likely to notice that her hair grows fast and is shiny. However, a few months after child birth, she may notice that her hair is beginning to fall out in clumps when brushing or washing her hair. This is due to hormones and the situation tends to correct itself within six months.

Anorexia Nervosa can also cause women to lose hair because they are starving their bodies of the nutrients it needs. As a result, the body chooses to hold onto all the nutrients it can for vital organs, and the hair may be the first thing to go. An inadequate diet can play a role in hair loss, which is why it very important to eat well.